Hickenlooper argues in D.C. for state regulation of fracking

WASHINGTON — States — not the federal government — should lead in regulating natural gas production, Gov. John Hickenlooper told a Senate committee Tuesday, angering environmentalists and drawing applause from energy groups who are fighting the Environmental Protection Agency.

"We have seen a big economic boost from the current oil and gas boom," Udall said. "But ... we have seen additional drilling and concern from our citizenry, and I think the governor and I both believe there is a great economic opportunity here, but the No. 1 priority is to protect the health and well-being of our citizens."

Hickenlooper thanked Udall for his "balanced approach."

Mike McKenna, a D.C.-based lobbyist for oil and gas companies and who watched the hearing, called Hickenlooper "a stud."

"I agree with all of it," said McKenna, who was also an adviser for the campaign of former GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney. "It's very rare, but he gets it. He has a reputation for being honest. It's not being drawn from anything but his experience and sentiment."

Hickenlooper noted the thousands of Colorado jobs created by embracing gas and extracting; he said the most important aspect of development is getting energy companies, the public and other stakeholders at the same table.

Environmentalists disagreed Tuesday.

"There are cities and states around the country with stronger regulations than Colorado," said Jason Bane of Western Resource Advocates. "We have oil and gas wells literally across the street from elementary schools and in the middle of residential areas. Why are we even discussing whether this is OK? Whether it is at the state or federal level, we need to be doing more to keep families safe."

Hickenlooper, a former geologist, talked about "fugitive methane" — poisonous gas escaping during gas production. He said Colorado officials are working with Colorado State University on a study to measure air quality in different seasons in oil-producing parts of the state to "understand the consequences."

Sen. Ron Wyden, a Democrat from Oregon, asked Hickenlooper to describe the "sweet spot" of energy development, creating jobs and doing it responsibly for the environment.

"I think the federal government ... could partner with us in terms of trying to push us further and find out where the sweet spots are," Hickenlooper said. "But I think that's going to take a certain amount of time. ... Colorado is doing it now."

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